Yeah..I look like an Angel, but just wait!

The honeymoon is over. It’s three months after the arrival of your Westie puppy and you’re getting weary. That endearing little white ball of fur shows no signs of getting the potty training ritual. By now you’ve had more than a few sleepless nights, kept awake by his plaintive cries in the crate. McPuppy seems to prefer chewing your hands and feet over any of the expensive dog toys. And razor sharp puppy teeth hurt. He digs. He barks. He piddles when he’s happy. He’s happy any time he sees you. He desires to be in your company constantly. He’s, well, needy.

The realization is dawning that puppies are a lot of work. Training takes months, not weeks. Vet bills are an on-going expense if you’re going to be a responsible dog owner. And, above all, a dog is a long-term commitment requiring your time and attention. Perhaps this wasn’t such a good idea…..

Anyone who’s ever owned a dog has reached this point somewhere in their human-canine relationship. Before you give up on your puppy or on your dog-raising skills, seek help. Fortunately there are wonderful resources available to guide you along the way. Below you’ll find some we’ve found particularly helpful.

Now think puppy kisses, puppy joy at discovery, a small warm body nestled safe in the crook of your arm. Is it worth it? Absolutely.

WHAT TO EXPECT THE FIRST DAYS AFTER BRINGING THE PUPPY HOME

MOUTHING AND CHEWING

CRATE TRAINING

DIGGING

HOUSE TRAINING

THE FIRST SIX MONTHS

PUPPY STUFF

It’s exhausting, being a puppy!! (Try being a puppy parent!)

Click on the “angel dog” (or the devil dog”) to read “GET STARTED ON THE RIGHT “PAW” WITH YOUR NEW PUP OR DOG”.